Administrative Services Intern - Summer 2026 (Hybrid)

Job Description

Job Description

Position: Administrative Services Intern - Summer 2026

Reports to: Manager, Administrative Services

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)

Duration: June 9 - August 12, 2026

Compensation: Paid Internship (Hourly rates will start at $22.00/hour)

About the Foundation

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is one of the nation’s largest independent foundations. The Foundation boldly invests in creative solutions to urgent challenges, sparking hope for our future.

We work on a few big bets that strive toward transformative change in areas of profound concern, including the existential threats of climate change and nuclear risk, the challenges of criminal justice reform and revitalizing local news in the U.S. and corruption in Nigeria.

In addition, we maintain enduring commitments in our hometown Chicago, where we invest in people, places, and partnerships to build a more inclusive Chicago and in journalism and media, where we invest in more just and inclusive news and narratives.

We also make awards to extraordinarily creative individuals through the MacArthur Fellows program and for solutions to critical problems of our time through 100&Change. For more information, please visit our website is at www.macfound.org.

About Administrative Services

The Administrative Services team plans, manages, coordinates, and directs support services to ensure the success of the day-to-day operations of the Foundation and the Marquette Building. This customer service- and detailed-oriented team provides a high level of support and seeks creative and effective programs, services, and solutions that foster a supportive, well-run, and efficient working environment.

About the Internship

The Administrative Services Intern will gain hands-on experience in nonprofit administration and facilities management by supporting the day-to-day operations of the MacArthur Foundation and the Marquette Building. This internship provides exposure to event planning, office operations, sustainability research, and cross-departmental collaboration.

Event Planning & Engagement

• Plan and coordinate an end-of-summer event (such as a scavenger hunt or lunch-and-learn) to showcase the role and responsibilities of Administrative Services
• Develop event materials, communications, and logistics to engage staff across the Foundation

Administrative Services Operations

• Learn and assist with core functions, including furniture inventory, design finishes, evacuation and emergency planning, the travel program, and other office support services
• Support general office operations such as mail delivery, stocking pantry and production room supplies, and managing the virtual reception system for guest greetings

Sustainability & Research

• Research Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification requirements
• Conduct a case study evaluating the cost-benefit of LEED standards for the Marquette Building and the Foundation
• Prepare and present findings to inform organizational decision-making

Qualifications

• Interest in nonprofit management, business administration, facilities, or sustainability
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively and manage multiple priorities
• Attention to detail and willingness to learn new systems and processes
• Strong customer service skills are a must
• Work in the office four days a week

This internship is based in Chicago, Illinois. Our work environment is hybrid with designated in-office days and virtual days. Interns will be required to reside in the Chicagoland area for the duration of the program. Housing assistance for non-local students may be available and will be discussed during the interview process.

Application Process:

The application deadline is SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2025 AT 11:59 PM. Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume. As a requirement, students “must be returning back to school” to be eligible. Students meeting the minimum requirements should apply through the MacArthur Foundation website (www.macfound.org/jobs).

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

The work environment is an office setting. Intermittent physical activities will include bending, reaching, sitting, and moving around the office during working hours. Requests for reasonable accommodations will be considered to enable a person with disabilities to perform the job. Reasonable accommodations are also available during the interview process.

About the Organization

The MacArthur Foundation supports creative people and effective institutions committed to building a more just, verdant, and peaceful world. In addition to selecting the MacArthur Fellows, we work to defend human rights, advance global conservation and security, make cities better places, and understand how technology is affecting children and society.